Ghost Eye by Marion Dane BauerCopyright 1992
Apple Fiction (children's)
82 pages
What led you to pick up this book? The spooky cover and description; this book was a library sale find.
Summarize the plot but don't give away the ending. Purrloom Popcorn traveled around the country as a prize-winning show cat after his elderly owner, Lydia, became unable to care for him; and, he was perfectly happy on the show circuit. Then, one day, Popcorn was suddenly sent "home", where a lonely little girl tried to become his friend. Annoyed Popcorn descended a staircase to escape, only to discover that he could see ghosts through his one blue eye - and there were many ghosts in the old house.
What did you like most about the book? The ending. The book sounded spooky, but it was really quite a sweet story with a touching ending. I also loved the author's sense of humor. Popcorn would think something on the order of, "I'm off to Pittsburgh," one minute and then, "Just point the way to Knoxville," followed by, "Which way to Des Moines?" I loved that.
What did you think of the main character? He was haughty and annoying, but he was, after all, a cat. He took some getting used to.
Share some quotes from the book. I didn't mark any quotes. The book is very short and probably more qualified to be called a "short story" because of its size. Simplistic writing geared to a younger audience made it a fast read that I gobbled in the car, whilst waiting for kiddo.
Share a favorite scene from the book: The scene in which Popcorn's elderly owner has returned as a ghost and Popcorn - who has a very short memory - abruptly recalls her name. It's a very tender moment.
3/5 - Cute story, not outstanding but a fun little read.
Hmmm...I am always on the lookout for new books for the kids. After doing a quick search, I think this is too young for my youngest. Too bad because it looks good.
ReplyDeletej.kaye,
ReplyDeleteB & N's website says the book is for ages 7-11. Of course, I'm nowhere near that age range; but, I know youngsters often get miffed if you try to get them to read something below their level, so it probably just depends on the child. :)
I read this when I was little, and really liked it!
ReplyDeleteEva,
ReplyDeleteI can see why you enjoyed it. My copy is a battered old mess. I like to think that means it's been read and loved by many children.
It sounds like a book I would've loved sharing with my nieces. Boy, there are times when I miss having a youngster around. My youngest niece just turned the magical 21 this week...
ReplyDeletecjh
CJ,
ReplyDeleteI kind of miss that, too. Kids are a great excuse to buy some really fun books. :)
j.kaye, I have just re-read my favorite YA book -- On My Honor by Marion Dane Bauer, a Newbery Honor Book -- and will be reviewing it on my book blog soon:
ReplyDeletehttp://bonniesbooks.blogspot.com
A boy promises "on my honor" and fails to keep his promise ... and another boy dies. It's a gripping book, even for adults. I don't think it would be too young for your youngest, and I don't even know how old s/he is. Take a look at it.